A premier world city, Moscow is without a doubt, one of the most important capitals on the planet. For all the inherent charm and superb architecture of Europe’s most populous urban area however, Moscow can dish out a major wallop on your travel budget. For three years in a row, from 2006 to 2008, the city was the most expensive in the world for foreign visitors.

While Tokyo and Osaka beat Moscow out in 2009, the city has a long way to go to compete with the likes of Buenos Aires and Montreal. Still, despite the prospect of high currency conversion rates for most, there is a way to make Moscow affordable. The city of more than 10 million people after all, is world class. So read this list of free or almost free attractions in order to enjoy Moscow on the cheap.

Ryabushinsky Mansion

The Ryabushinsky Mansion has a phenomenal legacy, first as a notable creation of Fyodor Osipovich Schechtel. The architect was the most influential master of Art Nouveau and late Russian Revival in the early 20th century. The mansion may not be on the map for most tourists however, were it not for the fact that it was home to author and activist Maxim Gorky between 1931 and 1936.

Mayakovsky Museum

A great poet of the revolution deserves a standout museum for all to enjoy. That is exactly what the Vladimir Mayakovsky Museum offers, in the confines of the poet, playwright and noted Futurist’s former home, across from KGB headquarters.

Kolomenskoye

The former royal estate of Kolomenskoye has a singular UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Church of the Ascension. The 16th century white stone church is a marvel and the crown jewel of a complex that includes several other historic landmarks.

Novodevichy Convent

Though the official UNESCO inscription reads Ensemble of the Novodevichy Convent, Novodevichy will suffice. The 16th and 17th century complex is the archetype of the Moscow Baroque style and has indelible links with the social, religious and political evolution of Russia. The convent cemetery contains the grave sites of Chekhov, Gogol and Prokofiev.

Sergiyev Posad

Though a city within the Moscow Oblast, Sergiyev Posad is easily accessible from Moscow proper and is well worth the 90 km journey. The main reason? The spiritual home of the Russian Orthodox church is here, in the form of the UNESCO World Heritage Architectural Ensemble of the Trinity Sergius Lavra. The mere tip of the iceberg in the area northeast of Moscow known as The Golden Ring, Trinity Sergius Lavra is brilliant.

Vorobyovy Gory

Vorobyovy Gory, or Sparrow Hills, is a prominent hill on the right bank of the Moskva River and one of the premier landmarks in Moscow. If for no other reason, visit the summit for peerless panoramas of the city, in addition to Trinity Church and Moscow State University.

State Tretyakov Gallery

For fine art from Russia, there is no better place in Moscow than the State Tretyakov Gallery. The original museum facade is unusual and quite notable on the cityscape, with recent expansions into other landmarks, such as the 17th century church of St. Nicholas. All in all, the gallery offers more than 130,000 works of art.

Kuskovo

As a former summer country estate, Kuskovo is spectacular. Just east of downtown Moscow, the 17th century mansion and gardens of the noble Sheremetev family is a wonderful escape in the city. Check out the Grotto and State Museum of Ceramics.

Hermitage Garden

First-rate recreation and relaxation is on hand anytime at the Hermitage Garden in Moscow. The superb park in the central part of the city hosts many festivals, concerts and events.

Red Square

The most obvious attraction in Moscow is also free and best of all, without peer. Take a walk in UNESCO World Heritage Red Square and admire the Kremlin, Saint Basil’s Cathedral and Kazan Cathedral, not to mention pace of daily life. It’s here, more than anywhere else in Moscow, that you’ll know exactly where you are in the world.

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